News

ACV Friendly Neighbor News - Week of December 7–14, 2017

12/7/2017

Giving Seniors the Gift of Beating the Holiday Blues

12/1/2017

The Christmas season is a joyous time to celebrate. We focus on family, feasting on favorite dishes and keeping traditions, like huddling around the TV with family to watch holiday classics. But, this can be a bittersweet season for the elderly. Joy may be clouded with feelings of isolation or thoughts of lost loved ones or times past. What can we do to support our loved ones in a way that helps meet their emotional and physical needs? There are steps you can take to encourage a positive frame of mind and help beat the “holiday blues.”

‘Eleanor Roosevelt’ to Reflect in Dowling Park

12/1/2017

Storysmith Susan Marie Frontczak will bring the iconic Eleanor Roosevelt to life in Dowling Park on Monday, Jan. 8, as part of the 30th anniversary Live! at Dowling Park Artist Series. You will want to join us at The Village Church at 7 p.m. for what is sure to be an unforgettable performance.

Welcome ACV’s New Physician Assistant

12/1/2017

Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park is happy to announce an addition to their medical team: Certified Physician Assistant Nicole Hernandez. Nicole, a graduate of Nova Southeastern University in Orlando, will be working primarily at Copeland Clinic in Copeland Medical Center. She will also make regular visits to Good Samaritan Center, ACV’s skilled nursing community.

Offering Practical Help to Loved Ones During Holiday Visits

12/1/2017

The holidays are a special time for family and friends to get together. It’s not uncommon for us to visit a senior loved one who would benefit from our help. As you make your holiday plans, think about how you can help your loved one with things in the home so they don’t have to do it later. Offering your assistance during your holiday visit is a great way to show love and support in ways that linger on throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Events at Advent 'Christmas' Village

11/22/2017

Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park loves to celebrate Christmas. As the season surrounding the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, it is a wonderful time of joy and anticipation. For decades, ACV has made the season as festive as possible. This year, many exciting events are planned, and you are invited to take part!

How to Keep Your Teeth for a Lifetime

10/1/2017

It is a common myth that senior adults are destined to lose their teeth. There is no reason seniors cannot keep their teeth for a lifetime, since tooth loss is simply the result of an oral disease — not the aging process.

‘C.S. Lewis’ Comes to Dowling Park

10/2/2017

Advent Christian Village (ACV) invites you to experience one of the world’s most famous modern-day authors — C.S. Lewis — portrayed expertly by actor David Payne. Payne, who has been playing Lewis for more than a decade, will be at The Village Church on Thursday, Oct. 12, at 7:00 p.m., as part of the Live! at Dowling Park Artist Series. Lewis is the author of such famous works as The Chronicles of Narnia, Mere Christianity and The Screwtape Letters.

2017 Autumn Fest and Auto Show a Success

10/1/2017

Despite the threat of rain, all who attended Autumn Fest 2017 and the 4th annual Cruizin on the Suwannee Auto & Truck Show at Advent Christian Village (ACV) on Saturday, Oct. 7, enjoyed a beautiful morning outdoors. It was an enjoyable time at the Village Square along the Suwannee River.

ACV’s Bridge to Medical Care at Home

10/1/2017

Advent Christian Village (ACV) is a full-service community, with living options ranging from independent living to skilled nursing and even memory care; there is something for virtually everyone. ACV Home Care offers different solutions for those who need varying degrees of in-home help. But you don’t have to be an ACV member to receive these services.

Senior Living on a Budget

9/1/2017

Sometimes financial words such as taxes, mortgage and interest can be intimidating. Another important financial word that many people avoid is budget. Unfortunately, because many avoid living on a budget — not to mention even creating one — their financial situation suffers. This suffering can be greater if the individual is a senior adult.

One of Jacksonville’s Favorite Ensembles Comes to ACV

9/1/2017

The second Live! at Dowling Park Artist Series concert takes place on Monday, Sept. 18. You are invited to an evening of beautiful and inspiring chamber music by the San Marco Chamber Music Society, performing a number of pieces on string instruments and oboe.

30 Years of Compassionate Care

9/1/2017

Twice a year, Advent Christian Village (ACV) recognizes employees who celebrated a milestone in their length of service, beginning at the five-year anniversary and every five years thereafter. When an employee reaches and surpasses 30 years, they are given special recognition by ACV’s president, Craig Carter. Reba Loston was one such honoree last month.

9/1/2017

A New Chapter, A New Beginning

8/1/2017

“Move? At my age?” “I’ve got decades of stuff to go through and get rid of before I could even think about moving.” “I’m too young. I’m not ready.” The list goes on and on — these are just a few I have heard as reasons to put off moving to a senior living community. It’s easy to find excuses when you can think of more reasons not to do something. So, let me give you some reasons why you’d want to move so you can let those excuses go.

Live! at Dowling Park Artist Series Celebrates 30th Anniversary

8/1/2017

Thirty years ago, Advent Christian Village’s Dick Grillo put together the first artist series season. At the time, Advent Christian Village (ACV) was approaching its 75th anniversary, and became Florida’s first retirement community to initiate and host an artist series for its own members as well as the surrounding communities. The final performance of the very first season was the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra, playing to a full house in the new Village Church sanctuary.

Flamenco at ACV: An Intense Experience

8/1/2017

Advent Christian Village’s 30th anniversary Live! at Dowling Park Artist Series kickoff event will be Monday, Sept. 4. It will be an exciting one: a night of flamenco dance and Spanish guitar performed by Esther Suarez and José Moreno. Described as “intense” by José himself, flamenco is an incredibly expressive form of dance where the dancer uses their whole body — feet, arms, torso and even face — to tell a story, be it entertaining, romantic or comforting.

How to Get More Bang for Your Social Security Buck

8/1/2017

In 1935, President Franklin Roosevelt signed into law the original Social Security Act. Social Security is funded primarily through payroll taxes collected by the IRS. With a few exceptions, all salaried income, up to an amount specifically determined by law, is subject to the Social Security payroll tax.

Your Sunscreen May Be Killing You

7/1/2017

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, over the past 30 years, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Because of this, protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen on a daily basis has been advertised heavily. Even some makeups now claim to offer protection from the sun’s UV rays.

It’s Time Again for Camp Suwannee!

7/1/2017

Did you attend camp as a child? If you did, I’m sure you have some great stories to tell. Whether you have kids or grandkids of your own, or know children from your area, an opportunity for them to create awesome camp memories awaits them in Dowling Park, Florida, at Camp Suwannee.

This Staff Loves Serving Others

7/1/2017

Do you love your job? Sadly, polls show that around three-quarters of the American workforce does not. That statistic is completely inaccurate when it comes to the staff of Dacier Manor — Advent Christian Village’s assisted living facility. They love working there.

The Jo Kennon Public Library is at Your Service

7/1/2017

According to recent Pew Research Center survey data from fall 2016, 46% of adults ages 18 and older say they used a public library or bookmobile in the previous 12 months. Western Suwannee County is on its way to topping that percentage due to the excitement surrounding the grand opening of the Jo Kennon Public Library on the campus of Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park. The library reported that over 800 people visited the new building in its first two weeks following its grand opening on May 11.

No Better Time than the Present to Treat Hearing Loss

6/1/2017

This is the third and final article in a series I recently wrote concerning hearing loss. If you have not yet read the first two articles, I encourage you to read both “10 Surprising Causes of Hearing Loss” and “Untreated Hearing Loss: Effects and Who to See.” In those articles, I have outlined how hearing affects the overall health of our aging loved ones, and who should be seen to treat the effects of hearing loss. Today, let’s focus on some causes of hearing loss and available technology advancements.

New Public Library, Archive Wing and Ceramics Shop Open

6/1/2017

We are pleased to announce that on Sunday, June 11, a dedication ceremony and a ribbon cutting will be held at Advent Christian Village (ACV). At 2:00 p.m., in The Village Church, ACV will dedicate Phase II of Taylor Commons, its newest neighborhood; the Marion Polk Ceramics Shop; and the Shirley J. Brooks Archive Wing, which is part of the Jo Kennon Public Library. At 3:00 p.m., Suwannee County will celebrate the grand opening of the Kennon Library with a ribbon cutting on site. The public is invited to these events.

The Village Church Welcomes New Music Minister: Traci Nissley

6/1/2017

For a full year the ACV community prayed for God’s leading in searching for a new music minister for the Village Church. Those prayers were answered, as Traci Nissley accepted the call to this position of ministry; her first Sunday was June 4.

Don’t Believe These Lies About Falls!

6/1/2017

Approximately 9,500 deaths of older Americans are associated with falls each year. Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 and older, and at 80 years, over half of seniors fall annually. In fact, 87 percent of all fractures in the elderly are due to falls, and two-thirds of those who fall will do so again within six months. One-fourth of seniors who fracture a hip from a fall will die within six months of the injury.

Untreated Hearing Loss: Effects and Who to See

5/1/2017

Think about the people you have met who have an obvious hearing loss. Do they seem to be delayed and even disoriented during conversations? Do they repeat things or start conversations on topics that have already been discussed? Do they have the appearance of being uninterested in what is being said? Do they talk incessantly and never give others a chance to speak?

5/1/2017

Advent Christian Village (ACV) has been ministering to children for over 100 years. Today, that continues in a number of ways, including the administration of educational scholarships: the Forward Fund Scholarship and the Marvin E. Jones Scholarship.

ACV's Nursing Home Receives 5-Star Rating

5/1/2017

Good Samaritan Center, Advent Christian Village (ACV) at Dowling Park’s skilled nursing center, is excited to announce that they have received a 5-star rating from CMS, the US government’s Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services.

10 Surprising Causes of Hearing Loss

4/1/2017

We begin hearing in the womb, and the auditory processing part of the brain is the last sense to stop working when we are dying. While this may be a tough way to begin a conversation with you, I hope stating these facts works as a kind of wake up call. Since God designed us this way, the hearing sense must be vital to our being.

A Little Love Goes a Long Way

4/1/2017

Helen Myers, a five-year member of Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park (ACV), has been helping people for a long time — and doing a fine job of it. Even two years ago, at 90 years of age, she was asked if she would be willing to work some hours in a customer service role at ACV. She gladly accepted and still spends several mornings a week at the front desk of Carter House, greeting members and guests with a big smile. Some of her regulars even gift her with sugary snacks to thank her for her friendliness.

Fair Promotes Health and Wellness in Suwannee County

4/1/2017

The setting was Phillips Center at Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park (ACV). Tables covered with information about an array of services, agencies and resources lined the hallways and meeting spaces. It was the annual Suwannee County Health and Wellness Fair took place on March 31. This year’s event was sponsored by Advent Christian Village and Good Samaritan Center, ACV’s skilled nursing community.

Move to Improve: Exercise is Just as Important for Seniors

3/1/2017

Not long ago, it was common belief that older adults didn’t need to exercise — retirement was time to just sit and relax. Another widespread idea was that exercise was actually harmful for people with certain ailments — “I can’t exercise because I have heart disease.” Now, more people than ever, at all ages, are exercising. So, does age-old wisdom prevail, or is exercise important for senior adults? If it is important, how much is enough?

There’s a New Sheriff’s Deputy in Town

3/1/2017

Deputy Sheriff Greg Kastor is now on patrol in Dowling Park. The grandson of Eula Setzer, one of the first five orphans to move to Advent Christian Village in 1913, Dep. Kastor says working here feels like coming home.

Brand New Apartments Opening in Dowling Park

3/1/2017

Members and friends of ACV have been watching as a stretch of Dowling Park Drive has undergone a dramatic transformation. Where once cinderblock duplexes stood, now stands an entirely new neighborhood of townhome-style apartments called Taylor Commons. This project not only increases occupancy in that area, but also enhances curb appeal at ACV’s center.

Want a Better Life? Drop the Candy Bar!

2/1/2017

Above treasures and wealth, health is one thing that no one can put a price tag on. The state of our health depends largely on choices we make during our lifetime. Are we exercising enough? Are we involved in risky behavior? And the question I’d like to focus on: Are we eating the right things? Did you know that one cookie here, one carrot there can still affect your health 10 years down the line? If it was easy to predict the impact of each of our food choices, I’m sure some of them would be reconsidered.

100 Years Young

2/1/2017

When someone turns 100 years old, you feel you need to ask them their secret. There are no secrets with Sadie Leona Feagle; she’ll tell you straight out, “Hard work never hurt nobody.” Talking with Sadie is a true privilege. After all, how often do you have the chance to talk with someone who remembers when the sun didn’t shine in the Florida sky for two weeks in the 1930s because of the Texas Dust Bowl, or who took cotton she grew on her farm to the gin to make her own mattress ticking?

Falling Happens to Other People, Not Me

2/1/2017

Many people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is, they’re not. Most falls can be prevented — and you have the power to reduce your risk and the risk of loved ones. Exercising, managing medications, checking for vision problems, and making the living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent falls.

Clearing the Clutter for a Better Life

1/1/2017

Dealing with clutter is a common struggle in the US. Americans continually buy new clothes, new books and new gadgets without getting rid of anything. Those who lived through the Depression were conditioned to never throw anything away. Closets, attics and garages swell with “stuff,” especially for those who have lived in the same home for many years. However, clutter can be a real problem for senior adults. It can be a health hazard, and it quickly becomes overwhelming to get it under control. If you have a clutter problem, what can you do?

A Shining Example of ACV’s Mission

1/1/2017

In December, Advent Christian Village (ACV) held a bittersweet celebration at Good Samaritan Center (GSC), its skilled nursing community — the retirement of Shirley Lawson. Shirley Lawson has worked as a CNA for ACV for 31 and a half years. Her outstanding dependability is usually the first quality anyone mentions when speaking about Shirley.

The Science of Healing Through Prayer

1/1/2017

Many people believe science and faith cannot mix. Science can be observed, tested and proven. Spirituality can also be observed and tested, but many aspects of spirituality are difficult to prove. Faith is necessary when dealing with spiritual matters. But when tested over and over and the positive results appear to correlate, it seems impractical to discount what appears to be scientific proof of a spiritual matter. For example: healing through prayer.

Away from Home for the Holidays

12/1/2016

Home for the holidays. Don’t those words paint a happy picture? Just imagine: In the living room is a giant tree laden with ornaments and presents piled underneath. Garlands and swags hang from banisters and mantles. Candles flicker in every window and hundreds of lights glow outside. It is a scene worthy of a Christmas card. But sometimes people find themselves lodged “at the inn” instead. Usually it’s only for a few days because Grandma’s house couldn’t fit everyone. Christmas is a time for joy, and even if you’re an out-of-towner, whether for one night or many, you can still have a holiday that is merry and bright.

What is GriefShare?

12/1/2016

Each of us has experienced grief. People can grieve many different things in life — homesickness, side effects of advanced aging or illness, and even general disappointments. And we have all experienced grief due to loss of life, whether for a stranger (9/11, Columbine, etc.), a friend, family members, or possibly spouses. Is there help for people dealing with grief?

Marion Polk Ceramics Shop Groundbreaking

11/1/2016

On a beautiful Sunday afternoon in August, the community gathered for the groundbreaking of the Marion Polk Ceramics Shop. The ceremony took place at its future location, in what is now being called the “crafting circle,” joining Watkins Hobby Shop, housing the woodworking and lapidary shops, and the Chriss Building, where artistic painting is taught.

Holiday Visits — Offering Practical Help to Loved Ones

11/1/2016

The holidays are a special time for family and friends to get together. It’s not uncommon for us to visit a senior loved one who would benefit from our help. As you make your holiday plans, think about how you can help your loved one with things in the home so they don’t have to do it later. Offering your assistance during your holiday visit is a great way to show love and support in ways that linger on throughout the year. It’s natural to be concerned that your loved one remains safe and happy in their home as they age. You have a great opportunity during your holiday visit to help them … and make your visit even more meaningful.

Stained Glass is an Artform

11/1/2016

Pliers, cutters, grinders, soldering irons, lead, copper, and … glass — these are the tools of a stained glass artist. A touch of engineering, a dash of imagination and skilled hands come together to produce works of art that can only be truly appreciated in the light. Just like painting and sculpting, anyone can pick up the tools and produce a product. But it takes an artist to produce something beautiful. Harold Garner is an artist.

Five More Years!

11/1/2016

CARF-CCAC (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities - Continuing Care Accreditation Commission) announced that Advent Christian Village (ACV) has been awarded a Five-Year Term of Accreditation. The announcement came early this month following an on-site survey at the end of September.

Don’t Be a Statistic — Avoid the Flu

10/1/2016

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory condition that can cause serious complications, especially in young children, older adults, and people with certain medical conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 115,000 people across the U.S. are hospitalized each year as a result of severe illness from the flu. Influenza is the ninth leading cause of death in the country. The good news is that there is something we can all do to keep our families and communities safer. The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age or older be vaccinated annually.

Renovations Beautify Good Samaritan Center

10/1/2016

Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park (ACV) is much more than just a nursing home; it is truly a village, with homes, apartments, stores, restaurants, a medical center … the list goes on. Despite ACV’s diverse and varied offerings, its nursing home, Good Samaritan Center (GSC) — a skilled nursing community offering short-term rehabilitation stays and long-term nursing care — is a big part of Advent Christian Village’s continuum of care. Because of its importance, for the better part of three years, GSC has been undergoing a complete renovation — and we are happy to report that the renovations have reached a milestone.

The Risks of Using Someone Else’s Wi-Fi

10/1/2016

The internet has made doing many things much easier. It provides instant gratification for shopping for that perfect outfit or new gadget, and banking and bill payment services are just a click away. But the internet also has made it much easier for cybercriminals to get your personal information.

Low-Income Senior Housing: Great Places to Call Home

9/1/2016

No matter our age, we all crave a place to call our own that is comfortable and secure, has friends close by, and affords privacy when we want it. We do not “outgrow” the desire for these things. But, sometimes, after the paychecks stop coming and the savings account dwindles, seniors wonder what’s next. How will they afford a place of their own? What are their options?

ACV’s New Service Coordinator is a Perfect Fit

9/1/2016

When asked what it is about Advent Christian Village that makes it so great, most members talk about the people — not only the people who live here, but also the amazing people who work here. One of ACV’s newest employees, Service Coordinator Nancy Moral, is no exception to this praise.

Plan a Fall Foliage Foray

9/1/2016

For many, the beauty of fall is one of the highlights of the year. As leaves change from shades of green to yellow, orange and red hues, the landscape takes on a glow that delights and inspires. But for the average Joe, it’s hard to know exactly when trees will be at their best. Here is a handy guide provided by About.com to use if you’re planning a fall foliage foray.

The Keys to a Successful Reunion

8/1/2016

What do family, friends, co-workers, classmates and special occasions have in common? Memories! One way to celebrate those memories and to continue them is with a reunion. Reunions can be planned any time of the year. Life gets busy and busyness makes time pass rapidly. Our time is valuable, so it’s important to make the best of it. Celebrate, grab those happy moments, and reflect on them when you can. Most of us have to make an effort to create those moments. Spending time together away from daily distractions with all the relatives, friends, classmates, or co-workers creates quality time as well as lasting memories. You might only see one another once or twice a year or maybe it’s been several years. Reunions make it count, but they don’t just happen — someone has to make them happen.

New ARNP Rounds Out ACV Medical Team

8/1/2016

One of the vital services provided at Copeland Medical Center at Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park is Copeland Clinic. There, outstanding medical care is offered to area residents five days a week. Board certified family doctor/geriatrician Dr. Maria Gonzalez leads the medical team, along with two nurse practitioners: Beth Fulford, and newest team member, Natalie Gordon.

Consider a Canoe for Your Last Summer Excursion

8/1/2016

Where has summer vacation gone? It seems like only yesterday the last school bell was ringing and we were looking forward to a few months of the easy life: lounging by the pool, trips to see family, and vacations at interesting places. In many locations, school is already back in session, and it won’t be long before the rest follow suit. But don’t despair if you’re still hearing the call of the wild for one more trip. Florida will still be warm and sunny for a few more months, and we’d like to suggest a fun-filled trip down the beautiful Suwannee River.

Designing Your Home for Your Senior Years

7/1/2016

When designing or shopping for a new home, we should consider the livability and comfort the home will afford us. There are always specific features that we are attracted to, and a general flow of spaces that we feel will make our particular living style more comfortable. When a young bachelor shops for a home, he looks for different features than a couple with children. Their needs have changed and so they look for the features to accommodate a family. Designing a home or adapting a home for your senior years requires a similar rethinking of your current needs and what your future needs might be.

RiverOak CNA Class Held at ACV a Success

7/1/2016

Following Suwannee-Hamilton Technical Center’s identity change to RiverOak Technical College (Live Oak, Florida) last year, administration added several new program opportunities. Early this year, the college renewed its partnership with Advent Christian Village (ACV) in order to offer a unique, five-week Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class taught at Good Samaritan Center, ACV’s skilled nursing community. This isn’t the first class of this type to be taught at ACV and they are thrilled to be working with RiverOak to once again offer more medical education in western Suwannee County.

Richard and Patricia Hanks: Advent Christian Village’s Bailiffs

7/1/2016

Advent Christian Village members Richard and Patricia Hanks’ relationship started in a courthouse. In fact, they still spend a lot of time in a Georgia courtroom, but they’re not in trouble; they’re bailiffs.

A Valuable Resource: Service Coordinators at ACV

7/1/2016

If you are a senior adult who is hospitalized following a fall or an illness, who do you turn to for help when it’s time to go home? Your family or friends? What if none are available? At Advent Christian Village (ACV) the answer is easy — you call your Service Coordinator. Or better yet, the hospital discharge coordinator calls the Service Coordinator with the details of the kind of care you will need after your discharge. From there, the Service Coordinator sets up any necessary services, like delivered meals, housekeeping, or home care. They even see to it that prescriptions are filled and that you have transportation to follow-up medical appointments and specialists. This is just one of the facets of the Service Coordinator’s role.

Tips for Lowering Your Risk of Falling

6/1/2016

“Falls are an inevitable part of aging. There is nothing to do to prevent falls.” These myths are commonly believed. However, research tells us that there is much that can be done to reduce and even prevent falls.

Ten Years of Developing Stronger Leaders

6/1/2016

May 10, Advent Christian Village held a celebration in honor of 10 years of the Camp Suwannee Leadership Development Training program. A large group of former students as well as current and past leaders attended. It was a fun evening full of remembrances, congratulations, and hope for the future.

Rosemary Humbles Retires from The Village Church

6/1/2016

A lot has changed since 1972. In 1972, bell bottoms and body suits were in style, two Apollo missions landed Americans on the moon, a gallon of gas cost 55 cents, the original Godfather premiered, and Atari released PONG. The year 1972 was also a remarkable year for Advent Christian Village (ACV) because of the addition of several key staff member, and among them were Jim and Rosemary Humbles. Jim retired as president of ACV in 2008. And this month, Rosemary is following suit, retiring from the position she has held since 1981: minister of music and education.

Pill Organizers: Keeping You on the Right Medication Track

6/1/2016

As everyone knows, the memory starts to suffer with age. Whether we blame it on forgetfulness, old age, or too much other stuff to remember, most of us feel the effects of not remembering everything we’d like to. But when forgetfulness gets in the way of our health — such as forgetting to take our prescription medications — it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Moving Your Parent to a Nursing Home: A Caregiver’s Observations

5/1/2016

There may come a time when you need to help a loved one — due to illness, injury or condition — move into an assisted living facility or nursing home. While even the logistics of helping someone can make this type of move intimidating, the addition of strong emotions, memories, and “stuff” can easily be overwhelming. As the responsible person, you will need to consider your loved one’s finances, mail, clothing, and other personal goods, as well as the facility’s processes and approvals.

Advent Christian Village Celebrates 25 Years of Scholarships

5/1/2016

Advent Christian Village (ACV) hosts many annual events, but an event on April 19 hosted a group of nervous high school seniors. For the 25th year, the Marvin E. Jones Memorial Scholarship finalists gathered with their loved ones in Dowling Park to learn whether they would be the recipient of a large college scholarship. “Take a deep breath and count to 10,” advised last year’s top scholarship winner, Darrah Lane, who explained — during a report on how her scholarship had helped her during her first year of college — how nervous she had been a year ago.

A ‘Ruby’ in the Rough: Dowling Park’s Postmistress and the South’s First Female Mayor

5/1/2016

The United States of America will turn 240 years old this summer. Compared to most of the world, that is very young for a country. Similarly, Dowling Park, Florida, became a community around 115–120 years ago: very young by the world’s standards, young even when compared to most cities in Florida, but still historic for our southern United States. One historic individual who called this area home for most of her life was Ruby Estelle Jordan.

What is Cancer, Anyway?

5/1/2016

Cancer is a major reason for deaths worldwide. It leads to more deaths when compared with AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Deaths from cancer globally are forecasted to continue to increase to over 11 million in 2030.

The Arts in Health Care

4/1/2016

Pablo Picasso said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” No matter a person’s physical, mental, emotion or spiritual state, some form of art is going to appeal to them, whether it’s music, drama, dance or a painting, sculpture or quilting. And sometimes, when that “dust” is cancer, depression or Alzheimer’s disease, art can be a soothing ointment.

Advent Christian Village Loves Books

4/1/2016

A library is being built in Dowling Park. But the locals aren’t waiting until the future Jo Kennon Dowling Park Public Library opens to get excited about books and library programs. Inside the Phillips Center, just down the road from the library’s construction site, the Dowling Park Suwannee River Regional Library (SRRL) Book Club has been meeting monthly since September 2015.

An Artist of Three Dimensions

4/1/2016

Rosemary Eakins has been creating art in three dimensions since around the time she started school. Her apartment overlooking the Suwannee River at Advent Christian Village is a testimony to the skills she learned and has honed over the years. On tables and shelves, and in bookcases and cabinets, are tiny rooms full of tiny furniture, clothes, and faux food, animals and people. The realism and creativity is astounding.

When a Parent is Unsafe Behind the Wheel

3/1/2016

As a child grows, their parents watch them and encourage them to do more in the name of maturity. And sometimes, as a senior becomes more frail, their child watches them and encourages them to do less in the name of safety. It’s a difficult role reversal.

Remembering Ronald Reagan

3/1/2016

Nancy Reagan’s recent passing has prompted many people to express a wide range of emotions on social media. Conservatives remember President Ronald Reagan’s widow as a strong, positive and caring individual. She died 12 years after her husband, the 40th president of the United States.

10 Health Benefits of Relaxation

3/1/2016

You may have heard that a little bit of stress is actually good for you. In the just-right amount, that adrenaline rush can power you through a long day at work, boost your workouts and more. But while it feels good to conquer the day, in the end, it just simply feels better — and is more beneficial to your health — to relax.

Are Mom and Dad Still Safe Behind the Wheel?

2/1/2016

A time of great anticipation in almost every American teen’s life is when they can get their driver’s license. Do you remember the family discussions leading up to the time prior to getting your own license? How excited you were for the benefits you would have once that driver’s license was in your hands? Your new license held your passport to freedom and new adventures.

Benefit Auction Helps Make Camp Possible for Kids

1/31/2016

Advent Christian Village (ACV) has been helping kids since its beginning over 102 years ago. Five orphans from North Carolina moved to Dowling Park in 1913 because they needed a place to live and Advent Christian Village was born. Today, children do not live at Advent Christian Village. Times have changed and orphanages do not exist in the United States any longer. But ACV has not stopped helping children. It has many programs designed to minister to the young, including Camp Suwannee, the full-service campground located at Advent Christian Village.

War is About People

1/30/2016

Although the 70th anniversary of the great Second World War has come and gone, we’d like to spotlight one more WWII veteran who calls Advent Christian Village home before we close this book. Our final interview is with a soldier who never lost sight of what this war was all about: people.

Building Muscle After 60

1/29/2016

Some people believe a common myth that, after age 60, the human body is unable to build muscle. The fact is, according to Dr. David Heber, director of UCLA's Center for Human Nutrition, new research published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise finds older adults who begin lifting weights after 50 may win the battle against age-related muscle loss.

Public Library in Dowling Park Takes its First Step to Reality

1/26/2016

A crowd of Suwannee County residents gathered at the corner of Dowling Park Dr. and Marvin Jones Blvd. in Dowling Park Tuesday morning, Jan. 26, to break ground at the site of the Suwannee River Regional Library System's (SRRLS) newest addition: the Jo Kennon Dowling Park Public Library. The library, which was first proposed by Danny Hales over a decade ago, survived several obstacles to become reality and anticipation only made the event sweeter. In 2014, Suwannee County was awarded the financial support necessary to make the Dowling Park library a reality. Funding from the state is only part of what is necessary to fund the project and many in the county have stepped up to fill in the financial gap.

Mom Needs a Nursing Home — How Will She Pay?

1/1/2016

Your loved one’s health has suddenly or gradually declined. They need 24-hour medical attention, but not at a hospital. Their medical need is greater than what home health care can cover, so most often the best option is for them to stay in a skilled nursing facility. What happens next? And, how does it get paid for?

A Life Improved by World War II

12/30/2015

Seventy years ago, World War II was officially over, but its effects were still being felt across the globe. For some, the effects of their time during the Second World War have yet to completely die away. For one such soldier, the things he learned and the experiences he lived through helped to shape his entire outlook on life, strengthening his character and improving the world around him — a Marine by the name of Vic Grondzki.

Come to Dowling Park to See a Medical Specialist

12/29/2015

Advent Christian Village (ACV) has been on the cutting edge of medicine for many, many years. ACV was the first retirement community in the nation to invite medical students to complete their training in geriatric care on its campus. In the early 70s, it became the first retirement community in Florida to have its own outpatient clinic. It was the first retirement community in Florida to employ a physician’s assistant. Today, Copeland Medical Center, a state-of-the-art medical complex, is located on the north side of campus providing medical care, a pharmacy, outpatient rehab and dental care for its members and the general public. Part of the medical care it provides is by offering a range of medical specialists, reducing the need to travel greater distances for medical care.

Come Tour Advent Christian Village and Stay at the Village Lodge On Us!

12/28/2015

We'd love for you to come visit us and to take a tour. In fact, we're so sure you'll be excited and amazed by what you see, we're extending a special offer to you January Village Streams readers: Call (386) 658-5291 to schedule a tour and we'll give you one or two rooms for one night's stay at the Village Lodge for free.

Advent Christian Village Continues to Progress

12/21/2015

Advent Christian Village (ACV) recently held a service of dedication at The Village Church following the completion of two construction projects: Phase I of Taylor Commons, ACV’s newest neighborhood, and improvements made to the Christian education and office areas at The Village Church. These are the first projects to be completed which are part of the new ACV Master Development Plan announced at the end of 2013 with the 100th Anniversary Capital Campaign.

Feel Comfortable When Visiting Grandma in the Nursing Home

12/1/2015

It’s Christmastime again — and that usually includes visiting family who you may only see infrequently. For some, a family member may live in a nursing home or assisted living facility. Because of inexperience, some people feel so uncomfortable at nursing homes that they avoid visiting loved ones who live there. Some people find it depressing; others just don’t know what to say. It can be awkward, but if you are prepared, it can be a meaningful time for both of you.

An Easy Way to Support ACV at No Cost to You

11/30/2015

Amazon.com has become one of the most popular choices of Americans for online purchases of virtually any product imaginable. Now you can receive great products from Amazon and generate a donation for Advent Christian Village. Simply go to smile.amazon.com and choose Advent Christian Village as your charitable organization. All your purchases will generate a 0.5% donation for ACV. When combined with others across the country, that amount can quickly add up!

Battle of the Bulge Survivor Finally Finds Peace

12/1/2015

It’s been said that war changes people. Those that go away are changed. Those that stay home are changed. And sometimes, the greatest changes happen after the warrior returns home. On this 70th anniversary of World War II, we take a look at one such soldier. Alan Leith went away a boy and, like many others, he came home a troubled man.

Gift Ideas for the Senior Adult in Your Life - UPDATED

12/1/2015

Sometimes it’s hard to choose the right gift for an aging parent, grandparent or loved one. After all, they’ve had a lifetime of gifts and often have a different perspective on life than you may have. Here are some great holiday gift ideas to help get you started.

Help! My Dad is Dating Again!

11/1/2015

While some marriages end in divorce, there are many relationships that last the long haul. Couples celebrate 30, 40, 50 or more wedding anniversaries all the time. For most of these long-lasting marriages, when one spouse dies, the loss is tragic, not only for the widowed, but also for the family left behind. Many times, the children are grown and have children of their own. Traditions have been followed for decades. The loss is large and if the widowed spouse moves on before the rest of the family feels they are ready, problems can arise.

Making History as a Female WWII Sailor

11/1/2015

Prior to World War I, women were rarely found working outside of the home. Common thinking was that women should support their families by staying home. During World War I, America quickly realized women were needed to fill the thousands of jobs left vacant when its men joined the war effort. Women were also allowed to enlist in the Navy and Marine Corps — a first for American armed forces. After the war ended, our soldiers returned to their jobs and most women returned to their homes. But when World War II broke out, women once again hung up their aprons and joined the workforce. And a greater number of women enlisted. Mary Carter, current Advent Christian Village member, was one such woman.

Don’t Let Sibling Friction Worsen a Parent’s Health Issues

10/1/2015

When a senior adult experiences health problems, it can be a great blessing to them when their children are available to help. Help can be given in different ways: phone calls of encouragement and advice, going along on doctor appointments to help understand and remember information, helping more at the house, assisting with finances, or even providing hands-on care. Having more children usually equates to more help. However, when there’s disagreement among children about what’s best for the parent, more stress can be added to an already stressful situation.

ACV Employee Earns New Position

9/29/2015

Advent Christian Village is blessed to have outstanding staff members who carry out its mission each day. Several have taken additional training in order to grow and advance within the organization. One such employee is Good Samaritan Center’s (GSC) new assistant administrator, Katrina Fillyaw.

Your Right to the Life and Care You Prefer

9/1/2015

Do you remember the name Terri Schiavo? Her name was prominent in the news beginning in the late 1990s. Terri had suffered a cardiac arrest and massive brain injury due to lack of oxygen in 1990. Within a couple of months, Terri’s diagnosis was changed to that of a persistent vegetative state. Eight years later, Terri’s husband petitioned the court to have her feeding tube removed. Her parents fought the petition and a heated legal battle began. The case passed through many court systems and reached as high up as President George W. Bush. Finally, in 2005 Terri’s feeding tube was removed for the last time (it had been removed and reinserted once during the legal struggle) and she died 13 days later. Why a seven-year legal struggle over a feeding tube? Because Terri’s husband was confident that his wife would not want to live in such a vegetative state, and her parents believed that, as long as their daughter was alive, she should be allowed to remain so.

No Service is Unimportant: A World War II Spotlight

8/30/2015

When Earl Van Amburg was asked if he’d agree to an interview as another of ACV’s World War II veterans, during this 70th anniversary of the war, he agreed, but he warned that his story wouldn’t be interesting because he never saw combat. We feel that any veteran’s story is important and interesting. See if you agree.

My Dad Needs a Speech Therapist. What is That?

8/1/2015

What exactly is a speech-language pathologist (SLP), or “speech therapist,” as they are frequently called? When someone mentions physical therapy, people instantly have some understanding of what lies before them: Some part of their body isn’t working quite right and so a therapist will physically work with them in order to correct or lessen the problem. But, speech therapy? Is the therapist just going to teach them how to talk? Much more than that, a speech therapist’s job is to evaluate and provide therapy for a variety of disorders, not all of which are speech based, but most deal with communication or the mouth and throat.

Dealing with Grief and Loss

7/1/2015

We deal with different kinds of loss in our lives: the loss of a loved one through death, the loss of a relationship through divorce or separation, the loss of a career or ministry position. It could even be the loss of an idea, possibly the idea of how we thought our lives would turn out. The pain of loss is very real, no matter the cause.

In Service of God and Country

6/29/2015

Seventy years ago, World War II was almost a year old. The United States had yet to enter the war directly, though they were sending supplies to their allies in Europe. Germany, Italy, Japan and Russia were marching (literally and figuratively) through Europe and Asia, defeating and laying claim to those countries they desired. It was a frightening time at home and abroad. And things had only just begun.

Preparing for Hurricanes in Florida

6/28/2015

California has its earthquakes. Kansas has its “twisters.” New England has its nor'easters. And along other areas, the southeast has its hurricanes. Hurricane season, the time of the year when more hurricanes hit, is June 1 through Nov. 30. It’s during this time that hurricane preparedness becomes important.

The Gift That Your Children Don't Know They Want

6/1/2015

Parents spend their lives helping and worrying about their children, but in their senior years, their adult children begin helping and worrying about them. At this stage, there is a wonderful gift that parents can give to their children that will make this time much easier for them, and will help ensure that their own wishes are followed.

Taylor Commons Holds Open House, Members Move in

6/1/2015

Since Advent Christian Village (ACV) announced its new Master Development Plan in October 2013, the members and friends of the Village have been watching and waiting as the stretch of Dowling Park Drive opposite the Village Square and Village Centre underwent a dramatic transformation. Buildings were removed, trees were felled, truckloads of dirt were brought in, power lines were buried, new water and sewer lines were installed, foundations were poured, walls and roofs were erected … What was old has become new.

Digging in the Dirt at Good Samaritan Center

6/1/2015

Good Samaritan Center, Advent Christian Village’s skilled nursing community, is divided into three neighborhoods, each named for flowers: Dogwood, Magnolia and Camellia. But Good Samaritan Center’s flowers aren’t restricted to neighborhood names; two gardens filled with various plants, including many types of flowers, adorn two of its courtyards. Debbie Wilkes, court clerk on Dogwood, oversees the beautification of these gardens.

Advent Christian Village’s New Website

6/1/2015

Advent Christian Village (ACV) is happy to announce that it has a brand new website design. ACV spent months designing the new look and is sure visitors will find the new design more user friendly and helpful.

Support Workshop for Local Band Students

5/27/2015

First Federal Bank of Florida is helping Advent Christian Village extend a special opportunity to Suwannee County band students. ACV will host an exciting musical event in Dowling Park in April 2016. Along with holding a public concert at ACV, Presidio Brass will also be offering a youth workshop for brass players. Presidio Brass is a brass quintet on par with Canadian Brass, US Army Quintet, and other internationally known brass ensembles.

Advent Christian Village Awards 22 College Scholarships

5/20/2015

The annual Marvin E. Jones Memorial and Forward Fund Scholarship Banquet was held by Advent Christian Village (ACV) May 19. Each year, the legacy of those who donated funds to ACV in order to establish scholarships is carried on, as college scholarships are awarded to Suwannee High School graduates, ACV employees and the children of ACV employees. This year, a total of 22 scholarships were awarded.

Week of May 7, 2015 - May 13, 2015 ACV Friendly Neighbor News

5/15/2015

Guidelines for Dealing with an Aging Parent

5/1/2015

As parents age, new challenges also arise for their adult children. Sometimes it seems the roles have reversed and you are the one who is now giving advice and being protective. There are frustrations every child of an aging parent must deal with. Some are major, most are minimal. Our parents experience physical challenges, whether it is sight, hearing or even the ability to walk. They also may experience mental and emotional challenges. Their memory may be failing. Their ability to weigh their comments before speaking may be diminished and decision making isn’t what it used to be. All of these and more are a normal part of aging and a part of being the child of an aging adult. Are there guidelines that show us how to handle these situations?

Alabama Youth Choir Tour Makes a Stop in Dowling Park

5/1/2015

Advent Christian Village is excited to announce that One Voice Youth Choir, a touring choir of First Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, has added Dowling Park as one of its stops on their Mission Tour 2015 to Miami, Florida. The choir will arrive Friday evening, June 5, to perform a 7:00 concert at The Village Church.

Sewing Bears of Encouragement

5/1/2015

How many of us know someone who has said, “I am gonna hate aging. I won’t be able to do the things I love anymore or make any meaningful impact on anyone’s life, or even my own for that matter.” I can tell you firsthand that it does not matter if you are eight or 80 years old; if there is something you want to achieve and have the positive outlook to see it through, then there is nothing you cannot do. Victory Junction and Joy Whitmore are both proof of that.

The Untold Benefits of a Geriatrician

5/1/2015

You may be asking, “Just what is a geriatrician and who should see one?” According to the American Geriatrics Society, a geriatrician is a medical doctor who has specific training to meet the unique needs of older adults. Illnesses, diseases and medications may affect older people differently than younger adults. Older patients often have multiple health problems and take numerous medications. A geriatrician is specifically trained to provide the quality of care that takes these unique circumstances into consideration. In most cases, geriatricians are primary care physicians who are board-certified in either family medicine or internal medicine. In addition to their primary board certification a geriatrician has completed additional training in Geriatric Medicine.

What is ‘Assisted Living,’ Anyway?

4/1/2015

“Assisted living” is a term most people are familiar with, but they usually also have many questions about what it is and is not. How does it differ from nursing home care or independent living? Is it right for me or for my loved one?

ACV’s Craftiest Spot

4/1/2015

ACV Member Finally Marches from Selma

4/1/2015

Last month, 70,000 people — including the current and former presidents of the United States and a congressional delegation — gathered in Selma, Alabama, to honor the 50th anniversary of March 7, 1965, an important day for American civil rights. On that day, protestors set out for the first time to march from Selma to the Alabama state capital of Montgomery to protest what they saw as the unjust treatment of African-American citizens who were attempting to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

3/2/2015

Herbal Supplements Won’t Hurt Me, Right?

3/1/2015

Herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years. Most people think they cannot hurt you because they are sold over the counter. What people don’t realize is that there are some major issues that can affect the health of those taking herbs. Before you add an herbal supplement to your medicine cabinet, familiarize yourself with some basic knowledge about interactions and side effects.

Loyal Employees Honored for 310 Years of Service

3/1/2015

Twice a year, Advent Christian Village recognizes staff members who have passed milestones in the length of their service to ACV. Beginning at their five-year anniversary and continuing in five-year increments, employees are honored at a luncheon and are given meal vouchers for family members and friends to join them. Co-workers and Village members are also encouraged to attend to show their support and appreciation.

Thrilled to be at ACV

1/1/2015

Don’t Get Scammed

1/1/2015

Scams come in all shapes and sizes. The three above are only the tip of the ice burg. No matter how wonderful an opportunity you’re presented with, how official an e-mail may look, or how desperate a person on the other end of a phone call sounds, you need to protect yourself.

Fundraising Campaign Launched for Western Suwannee County Library

12/4/2014

A community luncheon was held in Dowling Park to kick off the fundraising effort for the proposed new Suwannee River Regional Library (SRRL) branch in Dowling Park. The library will be open to the public and will be a great benefit to those living in the western part of the county, as the closest public library is located roughly 18 miles away, in Live Oak.

Who Should Get the Shingles Vaccine?

12/1/2014

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices actually recommends that all persons over the age of 60 receive the vaccine, regardless of a remembrance of having chicken pox as a child.

How to Assist a Loved One with Financial Matters in Their Later Years

10/1/2014

73 Years of Marriage and Still Kissin’

10/1/2014

These days, when it’s common to hear about short-lived marriages and quick divorces, celebrating a 25th anniversary is big news. Reaching 50 years is almost unheard of. But Myrl and Frances Ellis can attest to the fact that living with the same person for 73 years is not only possible, but can be a lot of fun, too.

Keep That Wheelchair Rolling

10/1/2014

Medication Safety: How You Can Help

9/1/2014

Many senior adults take multiple medications several times a day. Keeping up with this can be difficult, particularly if memory is becoming a challenge. Methods for senior adults to remember their medication doses do exist, and there are also some things you can do to help your loved ones get the most benefit from their medication and stay safe in the process. These general medication safety tips are a good place to start.

Award-winning Water on Tap at ACV

9/1/2014

Study Proves Staying Active Longer May Be Within Your Control

9/1/2014

It’s something we’ve all heard for years: Exercise can help keep older adults healthy. But now a study, the first of its kind to look at frail, older adults, proves that physical activity can help these people maintain their mobility and dodge physical disability.

A Biblical View of Disability

8/1/2014

Birth defects, tragic accidents, disease, and the effects of old age are just a few of the countless ways that disability invades our lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20% of United States citizens cope with disability, and the disabled population increases to more than 50% in persons over age 65.

8/1/2014

ACV’s New Physician: Dr. Maria Gonzalez

7/8/2014

Advent Christian Village at Dowling Park is thrilled to announce the arrival of their new chief of medical services, Dr. Maria Gonzalez. Maria, fresh from Florida Hospital in Orlando, began seeing patients in Dowling Park the 13th of last month. Besides seeing patients and managing daily operations at the Copeland Clinic, she will also supervise the medical care given at Good Samaritan Center, ACV’s 24-hour skilled nursing center, and at Dacier Manor its’ assisted living facility.

ACV’s New Physician: Dr. Maria Gonzalez

7/1/2014

Honoring Veterans

7/1/2014

In the United States, people do a lot to recognize and honor the heroes who serve in the Armed Forces and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. July is an appropriate month to recognize veterans and wounded warriors, as we celebrate our nation’s independence.

The Key to Positive Recovery

7/1/2014

How will I ever recover from this? Have you ever been in a situation where you asked that question? Have you known someone who has been through so much that you didn’t know how they would ever get through it? How do we get through those times in our lives? Beyond following doctors’ orders, do we have any control over how well we recover?

Remaining Happily Married as We Age

6/1/2014

Early in my career as a marriage counselor, one of the first surprises I encountered was a couple that had been married 42 years coming for relationship counseling. I thought, “What can I tell them they don’t already know? What is it they have not worked out in 42 years of marriage?”

A Village Staffer’s Return on Investment

6/1/2014

Eyes for the Blind

6/1/2014

Individuals with visual impairment are quite often able to find their way on their own using their other senses and aids such as white canes. However, having a sighted guide can be preferable, especially in unknown territory.

Creating a Coordinator Connection

5/1/2014

When senior adults experience big changes in their lives—like a move for example—they are often overwhelmed and anxious. This can result in a decline in overall health and well-being. With the appropriate support, this can often be diminished or avoided altogether.

Lew Walters, WWII Veteran

5/1/2014

After two years of odd jobs and trying to make ends meet following his high school graduation, Lewis E. Walters enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1938. Little did Lew know that during the next eight years of his life, he would be involved in some of the most famous events in U.S. history.

Seniors and New Technology

5/1/2014

Evidence of technological advances is unescapable. Whether using a smartphone, an e-reader, or a computerized kiosk required for flight check-in or a medical appointment, using technology is required for many everyday functions.

Becoming a Caregiver

4/1/2014

Caregiving is one of the most difficult, yet potentially rewarding roles we can ever play. It is most often done for a parent or spouse, but could be for anyone you care about. You can be a caregiver without living in the same house or even the same state as your loved one.

First 100th Capital Campaign Project Groundbreaking

4/1/2014

The Advent Christian Village 100th Anniversary Capital Campaign is progressing impressively. The goal thermometer near the entrance to the J. Ralph Center indicates that more than $2.75 million of the $3.4 million needed to accomplish each of the plans has already been pledged.

It's Time to Have 'The Talk'

3/1/2014

I recently received a phone call from a childhood friend asking for advice concerning her mother. I have received calls such as this for many years—in part because I have worked in the field of aging services for 40-plus years.

Charity Scams

3/1/2014

Many people in our country, especially seniors, care deeply about others, and they want to do something good for those who are less fortunate. Unbelievably, criminals will use these altruistic feelings to feather their own nests. These con criminals will make you think you are giving to a good cause but the result is that the money goes to them.

Boot Camp Comes to ACV

2/15/2014

Camp Suwannee at Advent Christian Village recently became a “men only” zone. One hundred fifty men took the grounds by storm Jan. 16–19, transforming Rumph Pavilion into a military training zone and taking advantage of the Suwannee’s natural surroundings to its manliest extent.

Oral Health for Seniors

2/15/2014

Your teeth can last a lifetime with proper home care and regular dental checkups. No matter what your age, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy by brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

Transformation, Not Will Power

1/15/2014

Caring for aging parents is a labor of love. Our parents have given so much of themselves to us and it gives us great pleasure to give of ourselves to them as they grow older. It may require great sacrifice on our part, but we are more than willing to give our parents the assistance they need. We would not have it any other way.

Sandie Hugg: Employee, Resident, Cheerleader

1/15/2014

"People ask me if I'm going to stay in Dowling Park after I retire," says Sandie Hugg, Chief Program Officer at Advent Christian Village. "Why wouldn't I?" Sandie doesn't just work at Advent Christian Village; she loves and believes in this community. It took her a little time to find Dowling Park, but now that she has, she has no plans to leave.

Gardening in Winter?

1/15/2014

One benefit to retirement is a senior's ability to focus on activities they may not have had as much time for previously. Golf, ceramics, travel and gardening are just some of the possible undertakings that retired people can enjoy.